Colonoscopy is an investigation that is performed by both physicians (gastroenterologists) and surgeons. It provides important information about varied conditions affecting the large gut. An instrument known as a colonoscope is needed for this purpose. Some of the conditions that may be diagnosed include ulcers, tumors, polyps and other bleeding lesions. There several important things relating to colonoscopy Morrilton AR residents should understand if they wish to have the procedure.
Apart from assessing the extent of illnesses, the procedure is also used to collect specimens. Such specimens are known as biopsies. Other interventions such as the surgical removal of abnormal growths (polyps, for instance) can be done. Another important use of this procedure is in the screening of cancerous and precancerous conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract. Colonoscopes usually have a camera that is used to capture images that can be used for records.
There are several things that have to be done as part of preparing for the test. Colon prep is the collective term that is used for all the steps that are used in ensuring that the large gut is clean. Laxatives are usually used for this purpose and are usually given for a day or two. Newer colon prep laxatives can be given the night before and still work effectively.
Doctors usually recommend a liquid diet such as coffee, tea, water, clear juices and gelatin among others to help with the colon cleaning. Red or purple colored drinks such as grape juice should not be used. Due to the liquid diet, you may feel quite hungry as the stomach tends to be emptied out rather fast. At the same time, you may have diarrhea hence you are highly advised to remain at home during the prep.
The doctor will require some information before they go ahead with the test. Such information includes whether one is taking any drugs such as blood thinners or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin among others. Persons that are on either aspirin or iron supplements should stop taking them at least 7 days prior to the test. One will be asked to sign a consent form that states that they understand the risks involved.
A sedative drug is usually administered to help reduce discomfort and pain. A feel of bowel movements is experienced by a majority of the patients as the scope is passed through their rectum and colon. Others say they feel their gut cramping. Taking deep breaths is one of the measures that helps reduce this discomfort. Passage of flatus also helps relieve these symptoms.
The test lasts for between 30 and 45 minutes. In some cases, it may take a bit longer. You may feel a bit sleepy afterwards hence you will be retained in the clinic for a few hours just to be observed. One needs to drink as much water (and clear fluids) as possible to replace those that have been lost during the colon prep procedure. It takes a short while before you can resume your normal diet.
There are very few risks associated with this investigation. The commonest risks is bleeding especially if there are growths within the lumen of the colon. Other possible complications include fever, dizziness and vomiting. Get in touch with your doctor if you experience any of these complications.
Apart from assessing the extent of illnesses, the procedure is also used to collect specimens. Such specimens are known as biopsies. Other interventions such as the surgical removal of abnormal growths (polyps, for instance) can be done. Another important use of this procedure is in the screening of cancerous and precancerous conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract. Colonoscopes usually have a camera that is used to capture images that can be used for records.
There are several things that have to be done as part of preparing for the test. Colon prep is the collective term that is used for all the steps that are used in ensuring that the large gut is clean. Laxatives are usually used for this purpose and are usually given for a day or two. Newer colon prep laxatives can be given the night before and still work effectively.
Doctors usually recommend a liquid diet such as coffee, tea, water, clear juices and gelatin among others to help with the colon cleaning. Red or purple colored drinks such as grape juice should not be used. Due to the liquid diet, you may feel quite hungry as the stomach tends to be emptied out rather fast. At the same time, you may have diarrhea hence you are highly advised to remain at home during the prep.
The doctor will require some information before they go ahead with the test. Such information includes whether one is taking any drugs such as blood thinners or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin among others. Persons that are on either aspirin or iron supplements should stop taking them at least 7 days prior to the test. One will be asked to sign a consent form that states that they understand the risks involved.
A sedative drug is usually administered to help reduce discomfort and pain. A feel of bowel movements is experienced by a majority of the patients as the scope is passed through their rectum and colon. Others say they feel their gut cramping. Taking deep breaths is one of the measures that helps reduce this discomfort. Passage of flatus also helps relieve these symptoms.
The test lasts for between 30 and 45 minutes. In some cases, it may take a bit longer. You may feel a bit sleepy afterwards hence you will be retained in the clinic for a few hours just to be observed. One needs to drink as much water (and clear fluids) as possible to replace those that have been lost during the colon prep procedure. It takes a short while before you can resume your normal diet.
There are very few risks associated with this investigation. The commonest risks is bleeding especially if there are growths within the lumen of the colon. Other possible complications include fever, dizziness and vomiting. Get in touch with your doctor if you experience any of these complications.
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Find details about the benefits of receiving a colonoscopy Morrilton AR area and more information about an experienced surgeon at http://morriltonsurgery.com right now.
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